Transforming Maasai Landscapes: Land Cover Changes and Their Implications for Pastoralism and Conservation

Land cover change, particularly in landscapes inhabited by pastoralist communities like the Maasai, is a growing concern due to its environmental and socio-economic implications. The Maasai regions in Tanzania have experienced significant land cover shifts in recent years, which can affect biodiversity, ecosystem services, and traditional livelihoods. Despite the importance of these landscapes, there is limited understanding of how specific land cover types, such as rangelands, croplands, and tree cover, have changed over time, and what the drivers behind these changes are. To address this gap, this study examines the extent and nature of land cover changes in Maasai landscapes between 2017 and 2023. The study specifically focuses on the conversion of rangelands to other land uses, such as tree cover, croplands, and built areas, as well as the shifts from trees to cropland and built areas. By analyzing these trends, the study aims to provide insights into the factors driving land cover change and their implications for land management in the region. The findings reveal substantial transitions, including the conversion of 451,514 hectares of rangeland to tree cover, 152,064 hectares to cropland, and 10,181 hectares to built areas. These results highlight the urgent need for strategies that support sustainable land use while considering the ecological and socio-economic importance of Maasai landscapes.